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5.1.11 Metronidazole

These are the antimicrobials used within MTW NHS Trust and West Kent CCG, please refer to the appropriate Antimicrobial guidelines for guidance on the choice of antimicrobial for different indications.

1st line

xx

Metronidazole

Tablets 200mg, 400mg Suspension 200mg/5ml Suppositories 500mg, 1g

Hospital only

Metronidazole

Injection 500mg/100ml

Prescribing notes

Metronidazole has high activity against anaerobic bacteria and protozoa including Clostridium difficile and Bacteroidesfragilis. It is effective in the treatment of antibiotic associated colitis.

Administration: the rectal route is an effective alternative to the IV route if oral administration is not possible.

For treatment of Clostridium difficile associated diarrhoea, the oral formulation must be used.

Interactions: metronidazole can produce a disulfiram-like reaction if taken in combination with alcohol. Nausea is a frequent side effect.

On this website you will now see four icons for these resources rather than two. Please use BNF Legacy or BNF for Children Legacy as these will take you to the original format of the online publications which do not have any errors or omissions.